25 August 2014

Land sale highlights need for clean water rules

Concerns raised about the possible impact of the sale of Lochinver Station, and resulting increased dairy intensification on the property, highlight the need for stronger clean water rules, the Green Party said today.

Lochinver Station sits astride the headwaters of several rivers including the Mohaka. The Mohaka River is one of 13 New Zealand rivers which has a water conservation order to protect its recreational and scenic values. This does not protect water quality.

“Water conservation orders don’t give rivers the protection they deserve. They don’t require controls on land use in the catchment to protect water quality,” said Green Party water spokesperson Eugenie Sage.

“While there are protections in place to stop large dams, and large water takes, it doesn’t stop the Mohaka becoming polluted.

“Protecting a river for its recreational values should mean protecting it from becoming polluted so that it’s clean and healthy to swim in and raft and kayak on.

“The Green Party’s plan for rivers that are safe to swim in will give rivers, like the Mohaka, the protection they deserve. It would ensure that councils put limits in dairy expansion in sensitive catchments like the Mohaka,” said Ms Sage.

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